Since the emergence of COVID-19, workplaces across New Jersey have had to adapt rapidly to shifting public health guidelines. One of the most controversial issues to arise has been the question of vaccine mandates. Can your employer require you to get vaccinated? What happens if you refuse? Understanding your legal rights in this context is essential—especially as health concerns and employment obligations intersect more than ever before.
Can Employers Require Vaccinations?
In general, yes—employers in New Jersey can legally require employees to be vaccinated as a condition of employment, particularly when public health or workplace safety is at stake. However, there are important exceptions under federal and state laws that protect individual rights.
Exceptions and Accommodations
Even when a vaccine mandate is in place, employers must accommodate employees who cannot receive the vaccine due to:
- A sincerely held religious belief
- A medical condition or disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
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